​I've been thinking a lot about light recently. It helps that so much of the season's scriptures talk about light, and our Christmas Eve services all ended with sharing candlelight with one another. I remember when I was in High School the Pastor worked the entire Christmas Eve service around light, and when it came time to begin the candlelight sharing part of the service he first had the ushers turn off all the lights, even the decorative ones. This left only the Christ Candle still lit. He waited, and waited, and eventually our eyes adjusted to the lower light. That's when he pointed out how much light was shed by that one candle. No, we couldn't read in that amount of light, but we could easily see one another, and could have safely left the building if necessary. That one candle brought an amazing amount of light into that dark space. He then reminded us that we might not think that we make much of a difference in a dark world, or in people's lives, but, just like this candle, we have more of an affect than we think.

Jesus told his followers that they were the light of the world. He reminded them not to hide their light, but to let it shine for all to see. When we show God's love to others, we are shining our light. When we care for those who need our care, we are shining our light. When we tell others of the good news of Jesus Christ, we are shining our light. When we invite people to church, we are shining our light. When we let children and/or others the world might turn their backs on know that they are welcomed, we are shining our light. Go forth and let your light shine for all to see!

God of light in our dark world, you empower us to be light, and to shine where we live and work. There is so much darkness, that at times we feel it is impossible to make a difference. But like that one candle shining in the sanctuary, one act of grace can make a huge difference. And when we join together with others we can bring enough light to make night seem like day. Strengthen us, and grant us courage as we strive to continue to bring your light to the world....Amen.